What inadequate practice can lead to malnutrition in children?

Inadequate breastfeeding can lead to malnutrition in children because breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies that are crucial for a child's growth and immune system development. Breast milk is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of infants, offering the right balance of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals necessary during the early stages of life. When breastfeeding is inadequate, whether due to a lack of access, improper techniques, or insufficient supply, infants may not receive the vital nutrients they need, which can result in undernutrition and subsequent health issues. This situation underscores the importance of promoting effective breastfeeding practices to ensure that children receive optimal nutrition for healthy development.

In contrast, practices like regular eating schedules and offering a variety of foods can actually support good nutrition and healthy eating habits as children grow. Overfeeding might contribute to other health issues, such as obesity, but it doesn't directly relate to the absence of sufficient nutrients that can arise from inadequate breastfeeding.